Virginia Abrasives was founded in 1971 in Petersburg, VA. Initially, the company’s focus was aimed at producing the world’s best sandpaper, using its parent company’s Adirondack hard-rock garnet abrasives. Over time, the company’s markets as well as product lines have expanded into a broader offering for the construction trades.

The following is a timeline of key historical events:

1970: Barton Mines acquired the assets of Vulcan Abrasives Corporation, and changed the company name to Dur-Tek Abrasive Corporation

1971: Vulcan equipment moved to Petersburg, VA to capitalize on proximity to nearby furniture industry